Flying is one of the most stressful things people experience. In fact, according to Travel Health Insurance, as many as six million flights per year are avoided due to fear of flying. However, in many situations, there is no way around flying, but there is a way to ease your anxiety.
Therapy dogs are popping up in airports all around the country, providing a sense of relief for nervous travelers. According to USA Today, roughly 27 airports have therapy dogs that visit with flyers in terminals for a couple of hours each day. These dogs are certified by the Therapy Dogs International, and have received incredible training. “Airports are exciting places of much activity, but at times they also can be overwhelming for some travelers,” said Scott Elmore, spokesman for ACI-NA said. “As simple as it may sound, encountering a four-legged friend in the terminal can be exactly the experience that takes the edge off the airport experience.”
We agree! We know how our pups take the stress out of day-to-day life when we have two feet on the ground, so we can only imagine how their presence can lighten a mood during a super stressful situation, such as flying. As of right now, airports such as Miami International Airport, San Antonio International Airport, San Francisco International Airport and Will Rogers World Airport all have programs in place. We’re hoping to see many more!
Head over to USA Today for more information!
